Coordinator Spotlight: Get to know Osita!

Camp Name: Osita

Hometown: Burnsville, MN

Year in School: Senior

Major(s)/Minor(s): Spanish and World Language Education

How did you hear about Camp Kesem?

I first heard about Camp Kesem as a junior through my roommates who were involved at different levels with Camp Kesem. After finding out more about how incredible this organization is and with the opening of Kesem –UW’s first year of Teen Camp I knew I had to be involved. Last year, I spent my first year at camp with the most amazing group of teens, counselors, and kiddos.

What is the meaning behind your camp name?

As a Spanish major and future Spanish teacher, I wanted to reflect my love of world languages by having a Spanish name. I settled on Osita (“little bear”) because bears are my favorite animal.

What are you most looking forward to about next summer’s Camp Kesem?

I can’t wait to see camp come together knowing that I played a part in planning it all. I can’t wait to get to know all the campers this year and I am especially looking forward to the Teen overnight again.

If your life was a camp theme day what would it be?

I think a culture day would be fun. A day to celebrate different cultures and their traditions would be right up my alley. I love traveling and learning about other languages and cultures.

Explain your position in Camp Kesem. What role do you have?

I am one of the Admin and Programming directors. I help to plan out many of the specifics that go on at camp. Our admin team finds our camp facility (it’s going to be great this year!), organizes transportation, and creates the camp itinerary.

Why do you CK?

I Kesem because I believe that the campers who come spend a week with us at camp are some of the strongest, most beautiful and inspirational people I have ever met. I Kesem because I believe that no child should have to deal with the hardships of seeing a parent struggle or suffer. It is amazing to see the campers come to camp and run around and just be goofy, care-free kids for a week, despite everything that may be going on at home. These kids inspire me, and I Kesem for them.

Favorites:

Favorite camp activity: Singing camp songs

Favorite camp song: Humpty Dumpty (Uh, ain’t that funky now)

Favorite memory from Camp Kesem: The teen overnight. It was such an amazing bonding experience.

Favorite Camp Food: Pizza.

About Kesem

Kesem is a nationwide community, driven by passionate college student leaders, that supports children through and beyond their parent’s cancer. By offering innovative, fun-­filled programs that foster a lasting community, we aim to ensure that every child impacted by a parent’s cancer is never alone.